Paterson, New Jersey - Facts & Figures
Paterson, New Jersey, is known as the "Silk City" because it was a large silk producer early in its history. Predominately a mill town, Paterson powered its industry by harnessing the power of the nearby Great Falls. Silk was its most productive item, but the area also manufactured firearms, textiles and railroad locomotives. Paterson was also the site of many experiments as the submarine was invented and developed, and you can still find early models in the town's museums. Today, the town is supported by small businesses and entrepreneurs, many of whom are immigrants. They comprise the largest portion of Paterson's economy as their main industries have become less relevant. Recently, Paterson experienced severe flooding and damage during Hurricane Irene and was declared part of the disaster zone.
- Population: 146,309
- Industries: Manufacturing (silk/fabric dying/textiles), Finance, Sales, and Healthcare
- Area Codes: 862, 973
- ZIP Codes: 07501, 07502, 07503, 07504, 07505, 07509, 07510, 07513, 07514, 07522, 07524, 07530, 07533, 07543, 07544
- Surrounding Cities: Newark, NJ; Manhattan, NY; Prospect Park borough, NJ; Haledon borough, NJ; Elmwood Park borough, NJ; West Paterson borough, NJ; Fair Lawn borough, NJ; Hawthorne borough, NJ; Totowa borough, NJ; Clifton, NJ